Michel Hazanavicius has won his first Oscar, given for Directing for his film "The Artist," marking the director's first win and third nomination.

Hazanavicius, 44, beat nominees Alexander Payne of "The Descendants," Martin Scorsese of "Hugo," Woody Allen of "Midnight in Paris" and Terrence Malick of "The Tree of Life." The winners of the 2012 Academy Awards were named at a Los Angeles ceremony on Sunday, February 26.

In his acceptance speech, Hazanavicius (pronounced "ha-zah-nah-VEESH-us") thanked the human actors and filmmakers of the silent comedy as well as another special star of "The Artist."

"I want to thank Uggie the dog. I think he doesn't care," the director said. "I'm not sure he understands what I say. It's not that good, but thank you."

"The Artist" is a silent, black and white film that depicts the lives of a declining actor named George Valentin, played by Jean Dujardin, and a rising actress named Peppy Miller, portrayed by Bejo, in Hollywood in the late 1920s. Around that time, silent films began to be phased out and were soon replaced by 'talkies,' or movies with dialogue.

"Life is full of grace and it brings to us joy and happiness and sometimes life is wonderful and today is one of those days," Hazanavicius added. "Thank you for giving it to me." (Check out a video of his speech.)

Upon learning of his nomination, the director said, "I am so honored for this nomination. Filming 'The Artist' in Los Angeles was a dream come true, and to receive this recognition today is far beyond what I ever imagined. I couldn't have done this film without the incredible cast of actors and outstanding crew whose heart and souls were poured into this project."

"The Artist," which won a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture- Musical or Comedy, earned ten Oscar nods for the 2012 Academy Awards, including one for best picture.

Hazanavicius was also nominated in the categories of Best Achievement in Film Editing and Best Writing, Original Screenplay for the film. His wife, actress B?r?nice Bejo was also nominated in the Best Supporting Actress category for "The Artist."